Plizio Visual Lab

The Siq

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Siq is the dramatic main entrance to the ancient city of Petra, a natural geological fissure formed by tectonic forces rather than water erosion. Stretching for approximately 1.2 kilometers, the canyon winds through sandstone walls that soar up to 80 meters high, narrowing to just three meters in some sections. The Nabataeans utilized this natural passage not only for defense but as a vital part of their sophisticated water management system, carving channels into the rock to carry fresh water from remote springs into the city. Along the shaded walk, visitors can observe numerous votive niches, inscriptions, and remnants of carved reliefs representing caravans and gods. A notable feature is the remains of a monumental arch that once spanned the entrance, symbolizing the transition from the outside world into the sacred city. The experience of walking through the Siq concludes with the panoramic reveal of the Al-Khazneh facade as the canyon walls finally part.

Location: Jordan
Top sights: Djinn Blocks · Al-Madras · Petra view
Nearby: Wadi Dhana / Feynan (26 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	8	11	15	20	23	25	25	23	19	13	8
Rain mm	45	36	19	10	4	0	0	0	1	7	15	26

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Siq is the main entrance to the ancient city of Petra and is accessible only with an entry ticket. The narrow canyon is an impressive natural and cultural monument to walk through.

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Typical hours

The Petra archaeological site is usually open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Siq is walkable throughout this time; early morning is quietest.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the Siq, preferably without flash to use natural lighting. The high rock walls offer dramatic light and shadow effects.

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Time needed

Walking through the Siq to the Treasury takes about 20-30 minutes. Allow at least half a day for exploring all of Petra.

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Combine with

Combine the Siq visit with Petra's other monuments like the Treasury and the Monastery. The Petra Museum at the entrance also has valuable background information.

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Getting there

The Siq begins at the entrance of the Petra Archaeological Park, which can be reached by bus or taxi from Wadi Musa. The entrance itself is easily walkable.

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Insider tip

Go as early as possible to avoid crowds and enjoy the special morning light. Wear sturdy footwear as the ground is uneven.

Geography

Coordinates

30.32230, 35.45890

Facts

The Siq was paved with limestone blocks in ancient times.
The canyon reaches a maximum width of about 12 meters.
Carved camels and traders are still visible on the lower walls.
Dams at the entrance redirected flash floods in the 1st century BC.
The narrowest point is known as the 'Treasury's eye'.
It served as the primary ceremonial route for Nabataean kings.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)<1 km · SExplore →

Sharah Mountains3 km · NExplore →

Ad-Deir (The Monastery)3 km · SEExplore →

Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)5 km · EExplore →

Mount Aaron (Jabal Haroun)6 km · SExplore →

Shobak Castle22 km · NEExplore →

Wadi Ghuweir25 km · EExplore →

Wadi Dhana / Feynan26 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town The Siq (7)

Djinn Blocks 📍 landmark

Three massive cubic spirit tombs carved from sandstone, standing prominently at the entrance of the Petra valley.

Al-Madras 📍 landmark

This ancient Nabataean sacrificial site is located on a rock plateau high above the city of Petra.

Petra view 🌿 nature

This viewpoint gives a wide panoramic vista over the facades carved into the red sandstone of Petra.

Bab al-Siq Triclinium - Obelisk Tomb 📍 landmark

This monumental tomb is crowned by four distinctive, pyramid-shaped obelisks.

Jebel Khabtha 🌿 nature

This sandstone peak is known for the trail leading to a spectacular overlook directly above the Treasury.

Vaux Moise 🏺 historical

This archaeological site encompasses the remains of a fortress built during the Crusades to control the valley.

Petra Museum 🏛 museum

The museum at the entrance displays a significant collection of Nabataean sculptures and artifacts found at the site.

🕒 08:30-19:30 "winter time" || 08:30-20:30 "summer time"

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Siq?

The gorge is approximately 1.2 kilometers long.

Is the path through the Siq flat?

The path is slightly downhill and mostly covered with gravel or ancient paving.

Is there shade in the Siq?

Yes, the high canyon walls provide natural shade for most of the day.

Can you go through by horse carriage?

Electric carts are available for those with mobility issues; classic carriages are less common.

What are the water channels on the walls?

This is an ancient Nabataean irrigation system that channeled water into the city.

The Siq: where is it located?

The Siq is located in Jordan.

The Siq: what is there to see?

Highlights include Djinn Blocks, Al-Madras, Petra view.

The Siq: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

The Siq: why is it worth visiting?

The Siq is the dramatic main entrance to the ancient city of Petra, a natural geological fissure formed by tectonic forces rather than water erosion.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

The Siq

Best time to visit & climate